February 28, 2009

HALL OF FAME WELCOMES FOUR OF ITS NEWEST MEMBER

SMITHFIELD, RI - More than 100 family and friends, teammates and coaches, Bryant University welcomed four new members into its Athletics Hall of Fame Friday evening at the Bello Center. This year's Class includes Kevin Barletta ‘03 (Men's Lacrosse), Bumni Akinnusotu '03 (Women's Volleyball) Bobby Brown ‘90 (Golf) and Greg Wolyniec ‘01 (Football).

With President Ron Machtley and wife Kati joined by Director of Athletics Bill Smith, Vice President Jim Damron and board member Mike Fisher on hand, each inductee and presenter reflected back on their time at Bryant, offering several stories from their playing days and road trips together.

"It is a nice feeling to look back on my playing days here at Bryant, when we were the first members of a new program and to see where it is today, makes me very proud," said Barletta, Bryant's all-time career points leader in men's lacrosse.  Teammate Nick Allegretti '04, a four-time all-American, introduced Barletta and spoke about what it meant to be a teammate and how, not only was he a talent on the field, but one of his best friends off the field as well.

For many making the return back to campus for the first time since they left on graduation, several made remarks at just how far the athletic program has come and how beautiful the campus remains today.

"I had the privilege for playing for one of the best coaches in New England," said Brown in reference to Archie Boulet who is in his 44th year at Bryant.  "It's great to see how the program continues to have success, not only in golf, but in all sports."

Akinnusotu, a volleyball standout, thanked not only the coaching staff and administration, but the support from the entire campus and various departments, including student life and the multi-cultural office as playing a big role in her life while attending Bryant and how many of those connections remain today.

Several hall of famers attended the event, including Tony DeQuattro, Jen Carvalho, John McVeigh, Jim Squadrito, Beth Wandyes, Scott Trethewey and Dave French.

Football honoree Greg Wolyniec was unable to attend due to a work commitment.